Industrial/ Product Designer (f/h)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Industrial/Product Designer (f/h) Company: Airbus Location: Blagnac - Wings Campus, Toulouse, France Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Design & Engineering Operations Date Posted: 2026-02-11 Experience Level: Professional (2-5 years) Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on the conceptualization and development of innovative design solutions within the aerospace industry, specifically for commercial aircraft.
• The position requires a blend of creative ideation, technical visualization, and cross-functional collaboration to translate market insights and user needs into tangible product designs.
• The designer will be instrumental in shaping the future of air travel experiences, requiring a strong understanding of both physical and digital design principles.
• This is a hybrid role, offering flexibility while maintaining a strong connection to the team and company culture at Airbus's Toulouse facilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is titled "Industrial/Product Designer," its application within Airbus and the description of "crafting the next generation of air travel experience" firmly places it within a specialized GTM (Go-to-Market) context, focusing on product innovation and user experience that directly impacts market perception and adoption. The output is therefore framed around operations in a broader sense, encompassing design operations and product development lifecycle management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and develop groundbreaking design concepts by transforming market trends, airline feedback, and user insights into compelling visual and functional solutions.
• Create detailed design proposals and prototypes using advanced 2D and 3D visualization techniques, ensuring aesthetic appeal and functional robustness.
• Present design visions effectively to key internal and external stakeholders through engaging 2D, 3D, and virtual presentations, advocating for customer needs and design integrity.
• Champion a human-centered design approach throughout the product development lifecycle, ensuring that user desirability, technical feasibility, and business viability are harmoniously balanced.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including engineering, marketing, and manufacturing, to ensure seamless integration of design elements and successful realization of product objectives.
• Conduct research into emerging design trends, materials, and technologies relevant to the aerospace industry to drive continuous innovation and competitive advantage.
• Participate in international travel as required to collaborate with global teams, gather inspiration, and understand diverse market needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities have been expanded to emphasize the strategic and collaborative aspects inherent in a design role within a large aerospace organization. This includes the full product development lifecycle, stakeholder management, and the strategic importance of human-centered design in achieving market success, aligning with GTM operations principles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A degree in Design (e.g., Industrial Design, Product Design, Graphic Design) or an equivalent qualification is mandatory.

Experience:

• Proven professional design experience, ideally gained within a leading in-house design team or a reputable design agency.
• Experience in the aircraft industry is considered a significant bonus but not a strict requirement, indicating a willingness to onboard talent from related or transferable fields.

Required Skills:

• 2D Visualization: Exceptional proficiency in tools such as After Effects, Photoshop, and Figma for creating compelling visual assets and user interfaces.
• 3D Visualization: Advanced skills in 3D modeling and rendering software like Rhino and Blender for developing detailed product models and prototypes.
• Design Strategy: Ability to translate market insights, user feedback, and trends into actionable design concepts and solutions.
• Presentation & Communication: Outstanding ability to articulate design vision and rationale to diverse stakeholders through clear, captivating presentations.
• Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively in cross-functional, international teams, fostering strong relationships and constructive dialogue.
• Creativity & Innovation: A highly motivated, creative, and open-minded spirit with a proactive and positive "can-do" attitude.
• Language Proficiency: Fluent English is essential for effective communication in a global organization.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience within the aerospace or automotive industries.
• Familiarity with user experience (UX) design principles and methodologies.
• Knowledge of industrial manufacturing and production processes, particularly those relevant to complex product assembly.
• Understanding of ergonomics and human factors in product design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Required Skills" section has been segmented and detailed to highlight the specific software and conceptual skills crucial for this role. The emphasis on "Design Strategy," "Presentation & Communication," and "Collaboration" underscores the operational aspects of design, bridging creative output with business objectives.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive and visually compelling portfolio showcasing a range of past design projects is mandatory for application.
• The portfolio should demonstrate a strong ability to conceptualize, develop, and present innovative design solutions.
• Showcase projects that highlight both 2D and 3D visualization capabilities, utilizing the specified software (e.g., Rhino, Blender, Figma, Photoshop).
• Projects should illustrate a clear understanding of the design process, from initial ideation and research to final concept development and presentation.
• Include examples that demonstrate a human-centered design approach, showcasing how user needs were identified and addressed.

Process Documentation:

• While not explicitly a "process documentation" role in the traditional operations sense, the portfolio should implicitly demonstrate an understanding of design workflows.
• Projects should convey the designer's ability to navigate and contribute to a structured design development process, including concept validation and stakeholder feedback integration.
• Evidence of how design decisions were made and justified, linking them to market insights or user requirements, will be highly valued.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section has been tailored to reflect the critical importance of a portfolio for design roles. It emphasizes not just the visual output but the underlying process and strategic thinking that the portfolio should communicate, aligning with the broader operational goal of delivering effective product solutions.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: €45,000 - €70,000 per annum (gross).
• Methodology: This estimate is based on research of Industrial/Product Designer roles with 2-5 years of experience in the Toulouse, France region, considering the aerospace industry and the company's status as a major international corporation like Airbus. Salary benchmarks for similar professional roles in France, adjusted for the specific industry and location, were utilized. The provided "Classe Emploi (France): Classe G13" suggests a professional level that aligns with this range.

Benefits:

• Financial Rewards:
  • Attractive salary.
  • Agreements on success and profit sharing schemes.
  • Employee savings plan (abounded by Airbus).
  • Employee stock purchase plan (voluntary basis).
• Work/Life Balance:
  • Extra days-off for special occasions.
  • Holiday transfer option.
  • Access to a Staff Council offering numerous social, cultural, and sports activities and services.
• Wellbeing/Health:
  • Complementary health insurance coverage (disability, invalidity, death).
  • On-site health services center (depending on the site).
  • Concierge services (depending on the site).
  • Gym facilities (depending on the site).
  • Carpooling application.
• Individual Development:
  • Significant upskilling opportunities and development prospects.
  • Unlimited access to over 10,000 e-learning courses.
  • Opportunities for certifications and expert career paths.
  • Accelerated development programs.
  • Support for national and international mobility.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time professional role in France.
• Airbus fosters flexible working arrangements where possible, aiming to stimulate innovative thinking, which may offer some flexibility in daily schedules, subject to team and project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is provided based on regional benchmarks and role seniority. The benefits are detailed comprehensively as listed in the job description, highlighting their value proposition for professionals. The working hours are clarified with an emphasis on potential flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Aerospace, Aviation, Defense, and Space. Airbus is a global leader in designing, manufacturing, and selling civil and military aerospace products worldwide. Company Size: Airbus is a large, multinational corporation with tens of thousands of employees globally (specifically, over 130,000 employees as of recent reports). This scale implies robust processes, extensive resources, and diverse career opportunities. Founded: 1970. With a long history, Airbus has established itself as a pioneering force in aviation innovation and engineering excellence.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the Programme Department, suggesting a project-oriented structure focused on specific aircraft programs or product development initiatives.
• The design team is described as "award-winning" and "international," indicating a collaborative environment with diverse perspectives and high standards of creative output.
• Designers are expected to work closely with various internal departments (engineering, marketing) and external partners, highlighting a matrixed or cross-functional operational model.

Methodology:

• Design Thinking & Human-Centered Approach: The role emphasizes transforming trends and feedback into solutions, directly implying a user-centric design methodology.
• Innovation & Creativity: The culture encourages blending physical and digital worlds and turning ideas into reality, fostering an environment of continuous innovation.
• Collaboration & Integration: The need to balance desirability, feasibility, and viability necessitates a strong collaborative process involving multiple disciplines.
• Data-Informed Design: While not explicitly stated, the use of "trends, airline feedback, and market insights" suggests that design decisions are informed by data and strategic analysis.

Company Website: https://www.airbus.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Contextualizing Airbus as a global leader in aerospace provides a backdrop for the role's significance. The team structure and methodology are inferred from the job description's emphasis on innovation, collaboration, and user-centricity, which are critical operational aspects of a design function within such a large enterprise.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a "Professional" experience level, typically corresponding to 2-5 years of relevant work experience. It signifies a level where individuals are expected to contribute independently to design projects and begin taking ownership of specific design tasks and concepts. Reporting Structure: The designer will be part of the Programme Department, likely reporting to a Design Lead, Senior Designer, or Programme Manager responsible for product development initiatives. This structure facilitates project-based work and integration into broader aircraft development programs. Operations Impact: The Industrial/Product Designer's impact is significant, directly influencing the passenger experience, brand perception, and market competitiveness of Airbus aircraft. Innovative and user-friendly designs can lead to increased airline orders, passenger satisfaction, and a stronger market position.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop expertise in specific areas of aircraft interior design, cabin innovation, or digital passenger experience.
• Skill Advancement: Deepen proficiency in advanced 2D/3D design software, virtual reality (VR) for design, and user research methodologies.
• Leadership Potential: Progress to Senior Designer roles, leading design projects, mentoring junior designers, or managing design aspects of specific aircraft programs.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain experience in areas like engineering, marketing, and customer relations through project collaborations.
• International Mobility: Leverage Airbus's global presence for opportunities in different design centers or on international projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career analysis focuses on how a design role contributes to the broader operational success of Airbus and outlines clear pathways for professional development within the company's structure, emphasizing skill enhancement and leadership potential relevant to operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at Airbus's "Wings Campus" in Blagnac, Toulouse. This is likely a modern, state-of-the-art facility designed to foster collaboration and innovation within the aerospace sector. Office Location(s): Primarily Blagnac, with potential for collaboration and travel to Toulouse and other Airbus sites globally. Blagnac is a hub for aeronautical activity near Toulouse, a major city in southwest France.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The description highlights an "international design team" and the need for "collaboration," suggesting an open-plan or studio-like workspace designed to encourage interaction and idea-sharing among designers and with other departments.
• Technology & Tools: Access to advanced design software (2D/3D), potentially VR/AR tools for visualization, and modern digital collaboration platforms will be integral to the workspace.
• Inspiration & Innovation: The environment is likely geared towards fostering creativity, with access to design resources, research materials, and opportunities to engage with cutting-edge aerospace technology.

Work Schedule:

• The role involves a standard full-time schedule (approx. 40 hours/week).
• Airbus promotes flexible working arrangements where possible, suggesting that while core hours and project deadlines are critical, there may be some flexibility in daily start/end times, aligning with the "Hybrid" work arrangement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description of the workspace focuses on aspects relevant to a design professional, emphasizing collaboration, access to technology, and the overall innovative atmosphere conducive to creative output within a large corporate setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review, focusing on CV, cover letter, and critically, the provided portfolio.
• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where candidates present their portfolio, explaining their design process, problem-solving approach, and the impact of their work. Expect to discuss specific projects in detail.
• Technical/Skills Assessment: Potential for design challenges or case studies to assess 2D/3D visualization skills, conceptual thinking, and problem-solving abilities under timed conditions.
• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interviews: Discussions to assess motivation, creativity, collaboration skills, and alignment with Airbus's values and team dynamics. Interviews may involve design leads, senior designers, and HR representatives.
• Final Interview: Potentially with higher management or program leads to discuss strategic alignment and long-term fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that best showcase your skills in 2D/3D visualization, concept development, and human-centered design.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, your role, the design process followed, key challenges overcome, and the final outcome/impact. Use visuals effectively.
• Demonstrate Process: Show your thinking – sketches, mood boards, wireframes, prototypes, user research insights – not just the final polished output.
• Highlight Software Proficiency: Clearly indicate which tools were used for each project and your level of expertise.
• Tailor to Airbus: If possible, subtly align your portfolio's focus with aerospace or complex product design challenges, demonstrating an understanding of the industry's demands.

Challenge Preparation:

• Practice Visualization: Rehearse quick sketching, ideation exercises, and using your core 2D/3D tools under time constraints.
• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare to tackle design problems related to user experience, product functionality, or aesthetic integration within a hypothetical aerospace context.
• Presentation Skills: Practice articulating your design solutions clearly and concisely, anticipating questions about feasibility, user impact, and innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for applicants, focusing on portfolio presentation, preparation for design challenges, and understanding the interview stages from a design operations perspective, emphasizing how the candidate's creative output aligns with business needs.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 2D Visualization: After Effects, Photoshop, Figma. Proficiency in these is essential for creating mockups, animations, and user interface elements.
• 3D Visualization: Rhino, Blender. These are critical for detailed 3D modeling, rendering, and prototyping of physical product forms.
• CAD Software (Implied): While not explicitly listed, familiarity with CAD software commonly used in manufacturing (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks) might be beneficial, especially for understanding industrial manufacturing processes.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Not directly applicable to this design role's primary tools, but understanding how design impacts user engagement metrics (e.g., via analytics platforms) would be a plus.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design tools, but understanding how design integrates with product management and customer feedback systems is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools listed are specific to the design discipline. The "Primary Tools" section is detailed with the expected usage context for each software, crucial for operations professionals to assess their fit.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Creativity: A core value at Airbus, encouraging designers to push boundaries and explore new ideas for air travel experiences.
• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to high standards in design and product development, ensuring desirability, feasibility, and viability.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasis on working effectively across diverse, international teams to achieve common goals.
• Customer Focus: Prioritizing user needs and market insights to create solutions that resonate with passengers and airlines.
• Integrity & Compliance: Adherence to ethical standards and regulatory requirements, foundational to Airbus's success.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Designers are expected to collaborate closely with engineering, marketing, and other departments, requiring strong communication and negotiation skills to balance different perspectives.
• International & Multicultural: The team is international, necessitating an inclusive and adaptable collaboration style that respects diverse backgrounds and working methods.
• Feedback-Oriented: A culture that encourages constructive feedback to refine designs and ensure optimal outcomes, fostering continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values and collaboration style are inferred from the job description's emphasis on innovation, international teamwork, and balancing multiple project constraints, which are key operational aspects of a design team within a large corporation.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Innovation with Constraints: Developing groundbreaking designs while adhering to strict aerospace safety regulations, manufacturing limitations, and cost targets.
• Translating Abstract Concepts: Effectively visualizing and communicating complex design ideas to stakeholders who may not have a design background.
• Global Collaboration: Navigating time zone differences, cultural nuances, and diverse technical standards when working with international teams.
• Rapid Technological Advancement: Keeping pace with evolving design tools, materials, and digital technologies in the aerospace sector.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to advanced courses on 3D modeling, VR/AR design, ergonomics, and aerospace-specific design principles.
• Industry Exposure: Opportunities to attend design conferences, workshops, and industry events to stay abreast of trends.
• Mentorship Programs: Potential for guidance from senior designers and leaders within the Airbus design community.
• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Gaining insights into engineering, manufacturing, and customer relations through project involvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Identified challenges and growth opportunities are framed to reflect the unique demands of design operations within the aerospace industry and highlight how these challenges can serve as catalysts for professional development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: "Describe a complex design project from your portfolio. Walk us through your process, from initial concept to final presentation, highlighting any challenges and how you overcame them." (Focus on showcasing structured thinking, problem-solving, and use of tools).
• User-Centricity: "How do you ensure that your designs are user-centric, especially in a sector with stringent safety and regulatory requirements?" (Prepare examples of user research, feedback integration, and balancing needs).
• Innovation vs. Feasibility: "Airbus is known for innovation, but designs must also be manufacturable and viable. How do you approach balancing desirability, feasibility, and viability in your design work?" (Discuss trade-offs and collaborative strategies).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in designing for the aerospace industry and specifically for Airbus?" (Research Airbus's recent innovations, values, and market position).
• Teamwork: "Describe a time you collaborated with a diverse or international team. What were the challenges, and how did you ensure effective communication and a positive outcome?" (Highlight cross-functional collaboration skills).
• Adaptability: "How do you stay updated with the latest design trends and technologies, and how do you incorporate them into your work?" (Demonstrate a proactive learning mindset).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Storytelling: Focus on the narrative of each project – the problem, your solution, and the impact. Avoid overwhelming detail; let visuals speak.
• Highlight Key Skills: Explicitly point out where your 2D/3D software skills, conceptual abilities, and user-centered approach were critical.
• Prepare for Deep Dives: Be ready to answer detailed questions about specific design choices, technical aspects, and your thought process for any project presented.
• Engage Your Audience: Make it a conversation. Ask clarifying questions and encourage feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is tailored to the design role, focusing on portfolio presentation, strategic questioning, and demonstrating an understanding of the balance between creativity and operational realities in aerospace.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Industrial/Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Airbus careers portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio is polished, well-organized, and highlights projects that best demonstrate your 2D/3D visualization skills, conceptual thinking, and human-centered design approach. Tailor your selection to showcase relevance to complex product design or aerospace if possible.
• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your experience with relevant design software (Rhino, Blender, Figma, Photoshop, After Effects), your design process, and any experience in cross-functional or international project environments. Use keywords from the job description.
• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio walkthrough, focusing on clear storytelling, demonstrating your design process, and articulating the impact of your work. Prepare answers to common behavioral and situational questions related to collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Airbus's current projects, design philosophy, and values. Understand their position in the aerospace market and what makes them an industry leader. This will help you articulate your motivation and cultural fit.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details, particularly regarding salary and specific interview processes, should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.